The owners of Nido are doing the same thing for Spanish food in Mount Pleasant as they did for Mediterranean fare in Woodridge. In other words, expect satisfying plates — fried goat cheese, paella, pureed chickpeas with lamb — in a stylish, small space. 3155 Mount Pleasant St. NW.

[Mola adds a fresh splash of Spain to Mount Pleasant]

Escargot spread with bread “soldiers” at Flamant. (Deb Lindsey for The Washington Post)

Frederik De Pue’s bungalow-style restaurant in West Annapolis is home to three dining areas, each with their own charms. “To pass on a snack is to miss some of De Pue’s wit,” Sietsema writes. Go for the spread of escargots or blue crab pastry cigars. In warmer weather, try the cooling, grass-green gazpacho, made with spinach and cream, served with tender mussels and a curry “crumble.” 17 Annapolis St., Annapolis.

Restaurant Eve owners Cathal and Meshelle Armstrong fill the light-filled dining room in the Hotel Indigo with many a crowd pleaser: The standouts include crab cakes with just enough mayonnaise, bread crumbs and Dijon mustard to keep them together; whole grilled red snapper served with four sauces; and a roast chicken brined in orange and star anise, served with double-fried french fries. 220 S. Union St., Alexandria.

[Hummingbird takes flight with seafood and scenery in Old Town Alexandria]

The Bethesda outpost of the Arizona-based company is a block long and averages 800 people on a weekday. Go for dumplings stuffed with pureed edamame or a pizza with a crust made crispy (and healthier) from nutty flaxseed. 7100 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Bethesda.

You’ll have to be persistent to get a seat at this slim Japanese spot in Alexandria. But you’ll be rewarded by a bargain $48 tasting menu with such gems as “Tokyo-style tuna tartare,” dashi with soft-shell crab and udon noodles, and ice cream with coconut jelly and red beans. 1209 King St., Alexandria.

The sprawling brasserie import from New York can satisfy many appetites. Highlights on the large menu include zucchini flatbread, bibimbap and a juicy flatiron steak with hot and crisp french fries. 901 F St. NW.